Patek Philippe has unveiled a brand-new Calatrava model, combining the sophisticated Travel Time dual time zone functionality with a stunning 24-hour display. Driven by Patek’s innovative automatic caliber 31-260, this exquisite timepiece showcases both local and home time using a central 24-hour track, indicated by separate hour hands. The rose gold case and striking blue dial, adorned with luminescent indices and hands, make this Calatrava the ideal companion for world travelers.
Revolutionary Design
The Travel Time mechanism, which displays a second time zone using an additional central hour hand, is now housed in a polished 18k rose gold Calatrava case. Measuring 42mm in diameter and 9.85mm in height, the case’s slim profile and refined stepped lugs exude elegance. Departing from traditional correction pushers for local time, this model features a patented correction system built into the crown, similar to the one found in the Annual Calendar Travel Time ref. 5326G-001 from 2022. The crown’s middle position allows for easy adjustment of the local time hour hand in one-hour increments, without impacting the movement’s precision rate.
The Calatrava’s distinctive layout is inspired by a 1905 Patek Philippe Chronometro Gondolo pocket watch (No. P-527), featuring a unique 24-hour dial crafted for Brazilian retailer Gondolo & Laboriau. In this rendition, the dial is presented in navy blue with two white railway tracks flanking the chapter ring, which displays the 24 hours.
Although the 24-hour format may initially appear challenging to read, it features Arabic numerals for even hours and baton markers for odd hours, with the 12 at noon. With all hours of the day and night represented, there’s no need to differentiate between night and day. Polished rose gold numerals and hour markers, applied to the circular satin-brushed chapter ring, are treated with a luminescent coating, as are the 5-minute cabochon markers on the outermost railway track. The snailed dial center is intersected by a small seconds counter at 6 o’clock, framed in gold. Luminescent gold syringe-style hour and minute hands indicate local time, while the openworked gold hour hand displays home time.
Innovative Movement
Patek’s engineers utilized the ultra-thin 31-260 automatic base for the new movement, integrating the Travel Time and 24-hour mechanism. Known as caliber 31-260 PS FUAS 24H, this movement is powered by a platinum micro-rotor to maintain the Calatrava’s sleek profile. Boasting multiple patents, the caliber measures 31.74mm x 3.7mm, incorporates Patek’s in-house Gyromax balance and Spiromax balance spring, operates at 28,800vph, and offers a 48-hour power reserve. Adorned with the Patek Philippe seal, the finishing is truly exceptional.
The Calatrava 24-Hour Display Travel Time Reference 5224R-001 is elegantly presented with a matching navy blue calfskin strap featuring a nubuck finish, perfectly complementing the timepiece’s rose gold prong buckle.
With its innovative dual time zone functionality, the Patek Philippe Calatrava Travel Time offers unparalleled convenience and sophistication for individuals who frequently travel across time zones. The refined design, historical inspiration, and cutting-edge movement ensure that this timepiece is not only a practical accessory but also a worthy investment for watch enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Final Thoughts
The new Patek Philippe Calatrava Travel Time is a testament to the brand’s commitment to blending traditional watchmaking techniques with contemporary innovations. The exquisite rose gold case, unique 24-hour dial, and groundbreaking movement make this timepiece a standout addition to any collection. As a symbol of both elegance and functionality, the Calatrava Travel Time is sure to impress and delight even the most discerning of watch aficionados.
With a retail price of 57,630€, this luxurious accessory combines Patek Philippe’s renowned craftsmanship with modern functionality for today’s discerning travelers. For more information on the Calatrava 24-Hour Display Travel Time Reference 5224R-001, visit Patek Philippe’s official website at patek.com.
Model: Calatrava 24-Hour Display Travel Time 5224R
Reference: 5224R-001
Diameter: 42mm
Thickness: 9.85mm
Case Material: 18k rose gold
Dial: navy blue – circular striations in center, circular-brushed chapter ring, snailed small seconds – applied 18k rose gold Arabic numerals, baton hour markers and cabochon 5-minute markers, all treated with luminescent coating – 18k rose gold syringe-shaped local hour and minutes hand with luminescent coating – openworked 18k rose gold syringe-shaped home hour hand – sword-shaped small seconds in white gold coated with white varnish
Crystal: Sapphire
Water Resistance: 30m
The Movement
Caliber: 31-260 PS FUS 24H
Winding: Automatic
Power Reserve: 48h
Jewels: 44
Frequency: 28,800vph /4Hz
Functions: local and home time on 24-hour scale, minutes, small seconds, stop-seconds function
Strap: navy blue calfskin with nubuck finish, contrasting beige stitching -rose gold prong buckle
Price: 57,630€
